A water scavenger is a type of aquatic insect that feeds on dead or decaying organic matter in freshwater environments. Some common synonyms for water scavengers include water beetle, aquatic scavenger, and freshwater scavenger. These insects belong to the family Hydrophilidae and can be easily identified by their flattened and elongated bodies, adapted for swimming and diving. They are important pollinators of aquatic plants and also serve as a food source for fish and other aquatic creatures. Water scavengers play a critical role in maintaining the health of freshwater ecosystems by helping to decompose organic matter and cycling nutrients back into the food chain.